The Newsom Effect

My husband and I were watching TV when the Yes on Prop 8 commercial aired, with Gavin Newsom arrogantly proclaiming, "it's gonna happen, whether you like it or not." My husband hates Newsom. And he's not wild about the idea of same-sex marriage. I also don't like Newsom, but I'm pro same-sex marriage. Thankfully, we were watching the commercial at the same time.

The Newsom ad was a cringe-inducing moment for both of us. I knew it had the potential to put my husband, and others like him, over the edge, and my gut began to churn.

My husband was extremely vocal, venting his disgust for Newsom. I nodded and agreed, not interrupting. When his anger subsided, I told him I was concerned that his disdain for Newsom would influence his vote, and I proceeded to list all of the reasons why Prop-8 was wrong and why it should be defeated. He didn't say much, so I didn't push the subject harder. Two days later the subject came up again and my husband said he knew I was right and he was going to vote No on Prop-8.

I'm writing to tell you this, because I believe that if my husband had not had the opportunity to talk through the issue with me, he would have cast a Yes vote in November. And I hope I can encourage other families to talk openly about the issue, because it could very well make a difference.